Samsung Plans July Exit For Messages App, Asks Users To Use Google's Messaging Platform

Samsung has moved a step closer to ending support for its messaging service, revealing a timeline for its discontinuation. The company is pushing users towards Google Messages, which now comes as the default option on its newest smartphones and tablets. Despite this shift, Samsung Messages has not been entirely withdrawn and can still be found on the Galaxy Store.

In an update published on its US support page, Samsung confirmed that Samsung Messages will be phased out in July 2026. The exact timeline remains unspecified, though users can receive the details through the app. Those using devices on Android 11 or below will be unaffected.

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Samsung is aligning its ecosystem around Google Messages, which will serve as the default texting app across Galaxy devices, including wearables. Full functionality will require users to make it their primary SMS service. The firm has also confirmed that existing messages and contacts can be carried over smoothly.

The company may roll out notifications within Samsung Messages to assist users in transitioning to Google Messages. Those who prefer can manually install the app from the Google Play Store and designate it as the default messaging option through on-screen prompts and settings.

To move to Google Messages without waiting for prompts, users can proceed as follows:

• Open the Google Messages app on the device.

• A message will appear requesting permission to make it the default SMS service.

• Select the option to set a default messaging app.

• Choose Google Messages from the list.

• Finalise the change by confirming the selection.

Google Messages works across Galaxy devices powered by Android 8.0 and above. The company has said that users can safeguard or migrate their data through Samsung Smart Switch or Google Drive.

Samsung's transition has been evident in recent releases, with both the Galaxy S26 range and last year's Galaxy Z Fold 8 shipping with Google Messages out of the box. The older Samsung Messages app remains on the Galaxy Store, but newer devices, such as the Galaxy S26, are unable to install it.

Legacy Galaxy Watch models operating on Tizen OS, especially those predating the Galaxy Watch 4, do not support Google Messages. This means that once Samsung Messages is phased out, these wearables will no longer show complete conversation logs, although messaging functionality will still be available.

Following the shutdown, Samsung Messages will no longer support regular texting, with exceptions limited to emergency numbers and contacts set on the device. The company has also indicated that certain pre-2022 models could face issues with RCS services.

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